Multifunction Brassiere Cup

ABSTRACT

A multifunction brassiere cup is described that includes multiple layers partially overlapping one another. A first layer, second layer, and third layer each have unattached edges. The unattached edges of the first and second layers cross to define a nook, which nook is covered by the overlapping third layer. The multifunction brassiere cup is configured to selectively receive the funnel of a breast pump behind the third layer of the cup and within the nook such that the funnel is supported against a nipple by the unattached edges of the first, second, and third layers.

PRIORITY/CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the priority date of the provisional applicationentitled “Multiple function nursing bra cup” filed by Dawn Michele Alvaon Oct. 20, 2009, with application Ser. No. 61/279,452, the disclosureof which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention generally relates to apparel worn by a nursing woman, andmore particularly to a brassiere cup configured to accommodate a nursingwoman's use of a breast pump.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Because of the increased awareness of the health benefits ofbreastfeeding for both infant and mother, many women are finding ways toprovide their infants with breast milk even if the mothers are notphysically present during the delivery of the milk to the infants or notphysically able to directly breastfeed their infants. To do this,typically, a woman will express milk using a manual or electric breastpump device that has a funnel. The funnel is placed over the nipple ofthe breast, and suction is applied by the breast pump to encourage theexpression of milk from the nipple. A traditional electronic breast pumpincludes the funnel, a motor to generate the suction for the expressionof milk, and a reservoir connected to the funnel to receive theexpressed milk. Because of the duration and frequency required forbreast milk expression, a woman may express both breasts simultaneouslyto increase efficiency. This process is often uncomfortable and timeconsuming. Further, without additional support, the funnel of atraditional breast pump will often not remain over the nipple on thebreast; therefore, use of the pump usually does not allow the nursingwoman to perform other activities simultaneously.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present multifunction brassiere cup provides a cup configured toreceive and support the funnel of a conventional breast pump against thenipple of a breast to allow for hands-free pumping. The cup includesmultiple layers arranged to partially overlap one another, each layerhaving an unattached edge. When the funnel is selectively received bythe cup, the unattached edges of the layers each provide support for thefunnel. Therefore, the funnel is supported, from multiple angles andsides, to remain positioned over the nipple while also being supportedagainst the nipple by the multiple layers.

According to the preferred embodiments, described below, themultifunction brassiere cup includes a bottom layer that is partiallyoverlapped by a middle layer that is partially overlapped by a toplayer. The unattached edges of the bottom layer and the middle layer arearranged so as to cross over one another, thereby defining a nook. Thetop layer is arranged so as to cover the nook. The cup is furtherconfigured to receive the funnel of a breast pump underneath theunattached edge of the top layer and within the nook behind theunattached edges of the middle and bottom layers. Accordingly, thefunnel of the breast pump may be selectively received by themultifunction cup while the brassiere incorporating the cup is beingworn by the nursing woman. Likewise, the funnel may be selectivelyremoved from the multifunction cup while the brassiere is still beingworn.

Preferably, the material of the layers is stretchable. In someembodiments, two of the layers are stretchable. In other embodiments,all of the layers are stretchable. In still other embodiments, only theunattached edges of two of the layers are stretchable, and in otherembodiments, only the unattached edges of each of the layers arestretchable. As such, the stretch of the unattached edges of therespective layers for receipt of the funnel results in an elastic-likepull against the funnel, itself, when it is in place over the nipple,from the at-least two unattached edges. According to the depictedembodiments, the unattached edge of the top layer discourages the funnelfrom slipping further away from the cup's lower edge, the unattachededge of the middle layer discourages the funnel from slipping furtheraway from the cups upper central edge, and the unattached edge of thebottom layer discourages the funnel from slipping further away from thecups upper outer edge. The elasticity of the stretchable material ofeach of the layers or unattached edges, whether in embodiments in whichthe material or unattached edges of each of the layers are stretchableor in embodiments in which the material or unattached edges of just someof the layers are stretchable, further discourages the funnel fromslipping outwardly away from the nipple or breast. The cup is furtherconfigured, in this way, to accommodate the natural expansion andcontraction of a nursing woman's breasts as well as the naturalvariations in nipple locations on various women's breasts.

In some embodiments, the cup is included in a brassiere utilizing twosuch cups and traditional shoulder straps. In other embodiments, themultifunction cup is included in brassieres of other configurations,such as halter tops, tank-top, brassiere-top swimming suits, sportsbrassieres, and the like. In some embodiments, only one multifunctioncup is included in the brassiere.

In some embodiments, the brassiere in which the multifunction cup isincluded further includes at least one selectively releasable clasp thatselectively connects the shoulder, neck, or other upper-support strap ofthe brassiere to a side support strap. Unclasping a selectivelyreleasable clasp disconnects the layers of the cup from the shoulderstrap, allowing all of the layers of the cup to be lowered so as touncover the breast and nipple while the side support strap continues tosecure the shoulder strap in its place and, in some embodiments, tosupport the breast. In this way, the wearer can directly nurse an infantwith manipulation of only one clasp, while the layers of the cup remainconnected to one another, without having to remove the brassiere,without having to detach the multifunction cup from the brassiere, andwithout having to detach any part of the brassiere from the rest of thebrassiere.

Also preferably, the top layer of the multifunction cup is configured tocover and conceal the nipple and the majority of the breast when the toplayer is not being stretched. As such, the brassiere containing themultifunction cups will have a visible appearance akin to the appearanceof a traditional brassiere. Further, the bottom layer of themultifunction cup is configured to cover the nipple and the majority ofthe breast when the bottom layer is not being stretched. Accordingly,when the top layer of the cup is stretched so as to insert the funnel ofa breast pump, the nipple is not exposed but remains covered andconcealed by the bottom layer of the cup.

Thus, the present multifunction brassiere cup provides a supportivegarment that may be worn in the same manner as a traditional brassiere,e.g., for long periods of time as an undergarment to outerwear. Itallows for quick and easy, hands-free use of a breast pump or a pair ofbreast pumps without having to disrobe or otherwise remove the brassiereor any other part of the brassiere. Ideally, the central area of themultifunction cup comprises only material, thereby adding to therelative comfort of the multifunction cup. Further, the configuration ofthe cup allows the wearer to support the funnel against her nipple,hands free, regardless of whether the nipple is located in the exactcenter of the breast or is offset somewhat. Still further, because thefunnel is supported by each of the layers of the cup itself, the wearerneed not hassle with separate attachment mechanisms or attachmentdevices such as hooks, buttons, zippers, hook and loop connections, orthe like. Also, the multiple layers of the cup support the funnel frommultiple directions, decreasing the likelihood that the funnel will moveaway from the nipple undesirably.

The purpose of the Summary is to enable the public, and especially thescientists, engineers, and practitioners in the art who are not familiarwith patent or legal terms or phraseology to determine quickly, from acursory inspection, the nature and essence of the technical disclosureof the application. The Summary is neither intended to define theinvention of the application, which is measured by the claims, nor is itintended to be limiting as to the scope of the invention in any way.

Still other features and advantages of the claimed multifunctionbrassiere cup will become readily apparent to those skilled in the artfrom the following detailed description describing preferred embodimentsof the multifunction cup, simply by way of illustration of the best modecontemplated by carrying out the multifunction cup. As will be realized,the multifunction cup is capable of modification in various obviousrespects all without departing from the invention. Accordingly, thedrawings and description of the preferred embodiments are to be regardedas illustrative and not restrictive.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective front elevation view of a brassiere withmultifunction cups according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a perspective front elevation view of a brassiere withmultifunction cups according to the first embodiment with the top layerdepicted in broken line.

FIG. 3 is a perspective front elevation view of a brassiere withmultifunction cups according to the first embodiment with the top layerremoved.

FIG. 4 is a perspective front elevation view of a brassiere withmultifunction cups according to the first embodiment with the top andmiddle layers removed.

FIG. 5 is a back elevation view of a brassiere with multifunction cupsaccording to the first embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a back elevation view of a brassiere with multifunction cupsaccording to a second embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a back elevation view of a top layer of a left-sidemultifunction cup according to the first embodiment and is a mirror viewof the back elevation view of a top layer of a right-side multifunctioncup according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a back elevation view of a middle layer of a left-sidemultifunction cup according to the first embodiment and is a mirror viewof the back elevation view of a middle layer of a right-sidemultifunction cup according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a back elevation view of a bottom layer of a left-sidemultifunction cup according to the first embodiment and is a mirror viewof the back elevation view of a bottom layer of a right-sidemultifunction cup according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 10 is an exploded, perspective view of the back sides of the layersof a left-side multifunction cup according to the first embodiment andis a mirror view of an exploded, perspective view of the back sides ofthe layers of a right-side multifunction cup according to the firstembodiment.

FIG. 11 is back elevation view of a middle layer, shown in dashed line,overlapping a top layer of a left-side multifunction cup according tothe first embodiment and is a mirror view of the back elevation view ofa middle layer, shown in dashed line, overlapping a top layer of aright-side multifunction cup according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a back elevation view of a middle layer overlapping a toplayer of a left-side multifunction cup according to the first embodimentand is a mirror view of the back elevation view of a middle layeroverlapping a top layer of a right-side multifunction cup according tothe first embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a back elevation view of a bottom layer, shown in dashedline, overlapping a middle layer and top layer of a left-sidemultifunction cup according to the first embodiment and is a mirror viewof the back elevation view of a bottom layer, shown in dashed line,overlapping a middle layer and top layer of a right-side multifunctioncup according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a back elevation view of a bottom layer, middle layer, andtop layer of a left-side multifunction cup according to the firstembodiment and is a mirror view of the back elevation view of a bottomlayer, middle layer, and top layer of a right-side multifunction cupaccording to the first embodiment.

FIG. 15 is partial, back elevation view of a left-side multifunction cupincorporated within a brassiere according to the first embodiment and isa mirror view of the partial, back elevation view of a right-sidemultifunction cup incorporated within a brassiere according to the firstembodiment.

FIG. 16 is a partial, back elevation view of a left-side multifunctioncup incorporated within a brassiere according to the first embodimentand is a mirror view of the partial, back elevation view of a right-sidemultifunction cup incorporated within a brassiere according to the firstembodiment, with edging, a side support strap, and a frame supportincorporated therewith.

FIG. 17 is a perspective back view of a brassiere with multifunctioncups according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a front elevation view of a bottom layer of a left-sidemultifunction cup according to the first embodiment and is a mirror viewof the front elevation view of a bottom layer of a right-sidemultifunction cup according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a front elevation view of a middle layer of a left-sidemultifunction cup according to the first embodiment and is a mirror viewof the front elevation view of a middle layer of a right-sidemultifunction cup according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a front elevation view of a top layer of a left-sidemultifunction cup according to the first embodiment and is a mirror viewof the front elevation view of a top layer of a right-side multifunctioncup according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 21 is a front elevation view of a middle layer, shown in dashedline, overlapping a bottom layer of a left-side multifunction cupaccording to the first embodiment and is a mirror view of the frontelevation view of a middle layer, shown in dashed line, overlapping abottom layer of a right-side multifunction cup according to the firstembodiment.

FIG. 22 is a front elevation view of a middle layer overlapping a bottomlayer of a left-side multifunction cup according to the first embodimentand is a mirror view of the front elevation view of a middle layeroverlapping a bottom layer of a right-side multifunction cup accordingto the first embodiment.

FIG. 23 is a front elevation view of a top layer, shown in dashed line,overlapping a middle layer and bottom layer of a left-side multifunctioncup according to the first embodiment and is a mirror view of the frontelevation view of a top layer, shown in dashed line, overlapping amiddle layer and bottom layer of a right-side multifunction cupaccording to the first embodiment.

FIG. 24 is a front elevation view of a top layer overlapping a middlelayer and bottom layer of a left-side multifunction cup according to thefirst embodiment and is a mirror view of the front elevation view of atop layer overlapping a middle layer and bottom layer of a right-sidemultifunction cup according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 25 is a partial, front elevation view of a left-side multifunctioncup incorporated within a brassiere according to the first embodimentand is a mirror view of a partial, front elevation view of a right-sidemultifunction cup incorporated within a brassiere according to the firstembodiment.

FIG. 26 is a front elevation view of a pair of multifunction cupsincorporated within a brassiere according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 27 is a side elevation view of the funnel and reservoir portions ofa conventional breast pump.

FIG. 28 is a perspective front elevation view of a brassiere withmultifunction cups according to the first embodiment with a funnel of abreast pump received by each cup.

FIG. 29 is a partial, back elevation view of a left-side multifunctioncup incorporated within a brassiere according to the first embodimentand a mirror view of a partial, back elevation view of a right-sidemultifunction cup incorporated within a brassiere according to the firstembodiment, with a funnel of a breast pump received in the cup andlocated in a first position.

FIG. 30 is a partial, back elevation view of a left-side multifunctioncup incorporated within a brassiere according to the first embodimentand a mirror view of a partial, back elevation view of a right-sidemultifunction cup incorporated within a brassiere according to the firstembodiment, with a funnel of a breast pump received in the cup andlocated in a first position with some edges of the middle and top layersshown in dashed line.

FIG. 31 is a partial, back elevation view of a left-side multifunctioncup incorporated within a brassiere according to the first embodimentand a mirror view of a partial, back elevation view of a right-sidemultifunction cup incorporated within a brassiere according to the firstembodiment, with a funnel of a breast pump received in the cup andlocated in a second position.

FIG. 32 is a partial, back elevation view of a left-side multifunctioncup incorporated within a brassiere according to the first embodimentand a mirror view of a partial, back elevation view of a right-sidemultifunction cup incorporated within a brassiere according to the firstembodiment, with a funnel of a breast pump received in the cup andlocated in a second position with some edges of the middle and toplayers shown in dashed line.

FIG. 33 is a perspective front elevation view of a brassiere withmultifunction cups according to the first embodiment with oneselectively releasable clasp unclasped.

FIG. 34 is a perspective back view of a brassiere with multifunctioncups according to a third embodiment.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

While the multifunction brassiere cup is susceptible of variousmodifications and alternative constructions, certain illustratedembodiments thereof have been shown in the drawings and will bedescribed below in detail. It should be understood, however, that thereis no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed,but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications,alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit andscope of the invention as defined in the claims.

As shown in the figures, for purpose of illustration, the multifunctionbrassiere cup is embodied in overlapping layers having unattached edgesso as to define a nook configured to receive the funnel of a breast pumpand to support the funnel against the nipple of a breast during theexpression of milk. When received in the multifunction cup, the funnelis supported in position over the nipple and against the breast by eachof the three layers. The elasticity of the layers or the unattachededges thereof allows for flexibility in the positioning of the funnelwhile still providing sufficient support for the funnel to allow forhands-free use of the breast pump.

In the following description and in the figures, like elements areidentified with like reference numerals. The use of “e.g.,” “etc.,” and“or” indicates non-exclusive alternatives without limitation unlessotherwise noted. The use of “including” means “including, but notlimited to,” unless otherwise noted.

Embodiments of the multifunction brassiere cup are depicted in FIGS. 1through 34, both as a stand-alone cup and as incorporated within abrassiere. A first embodiment of the multifunction brassiere cup isdepicted in FIGS. 1 through 5, 7 through 26, and 28 through 33. As shownin FIGS. 1 through 4, the cup 12 includes a cup lower edge 18, which isdepicted as passing essentially under the breast; a cup side centraledge 20, which is depicted as being the side of the cup 12 that isproximate to the sternum of the wearer of the cup 12; a cup side outeredge 24, which is depicted as being the side of the cup 12 that isproximate to the arm of the wearer of the cup 12; a cup upper centraledge 26, which is depicted as the upper side that is proximate to thesternum of the wearer; and a cup upper outer edge 28, which is depictedas the upper side that is proximate to the arm of the wearer. As shown,therefore, the cup side central edge 20 extends from the cup lower edge18 to the cup upper central edge 26, the cup upper central edge 26extends from the cup side central edge 20 to the cup upper outer edge28, the cup upper outer edge 28 extends from the cup upper central edge26 to the cup side outer edge 24, and the cup side outer edge 24 extendsfrom the cup upper outer edge 28 to the cup lower edge 18.

As shown in FIG. 1 through 4, the cup 12 is formed by overlappinglayers. That is, a first layer, such as the depicted a bottom layer 56(FIG. 4), is partially overlapped by a second layer, such as thedepicted middle layer 42, as shown in FIG. 3. A third layer, such as thedepicted top layer 30, partially overlaps the first and second layers,i.e., the middle layer 42 and bottom layer 56, as shown in FIGS. 2and 1. As arranged, the bottom layer 56 of the cup 12 is not visiblefrom a front view of the cup 12 when a funnel 7 is not received withinthe cup 12, as shown in FIG. 1.

More particular back views of the layers of the cup 12 are shown inFIGS. 7 through 17. FIG. 7 shows a back view of a top layer 30 of aleft-side cup 12, such as the cup 12 shown to the left side of FIG. 1.The top layer 30 includes a top layer lower edge 32, a top layer sidecentral edge 34 extending from the top layer lower edge 32 and a toplayer upper central edge 38 extending from the top layer side centraledge 34. The top layer 30 also includes a top layer side outer edge 36extending from the top layer lower edge 32 and includes a top layerupper outer edge 40 extending from the top layer side outer edge 36. Aclasp attachment point 72 is located adjacent the top layer uppercentral edge 38 and top layer upper outer edge 40. When constructed inthe cup 12, the top layer side central edge 34 aligns along the cup sidecentral edge 20, the top layer upper central edge 38 aligns along thecup upper central edge 26, the top layer upper outer edge 40 alignsalong the cup upper outer edge 28, and the top layer side outer edge 36aligns along the cup side outer edge 24. The top layer 30 is preferablymade of a first material 14 that is decorative, so as to add to theaesthetics of the cup 12 when included in a brassiere 10.

FIG. 8 shows a back view of a middle layer 42 of a left-side cup 12,such as the cup 12 shown to the left side of FIG. 1. The middle layer 42includes a middle layer lower edge 46, a middle layer side central edge48 extending from the middle layer lower edge 46, and a middle layerupper central edge 52 extending from the middle layer side central edge48. The middle layer 42 further includes a middle layer side outer edge50 extending from the middle layer lower edge 46 and includes a middlelayer upper outer edge 54 extending from the middle layer side outeredge 50. According to the first depicted embodiment, the middle layerupper central edge 52 and middle layer upper outer edge 54 also directlyextend from one another. When constructed in the cup 12, the middlelayer lower edge 46 aligns along the cup lower edge 18, the middle layerside central edge 48 aligns along part of the cup side central edge 20,the middle layer side outer edge 50 aligns along the cup side outer edge24, and the middle layer upper outer edge 54 aligns along part of thecup upper outer edge 28. According to the depicted embodiment, inconstruction, the middle layer side central edge 48 extends from the cuplower edge 18 to a central side midpoint 22 (FIG. 12) on the cup sidecentral edge 20. The middle layer 42 is preferably constructed of anexterior layer of a first material 14 and an interior layer of a secondmaterial 16. Ideally, the exterior layer of the middle layer 42 is madeof the same material used to construct the top layer 30 so that, whenviewed in the constructed brassiere 10, the exteriorly-visible materialmatches.

FIG. 9 shows a back view of a bottom layer 56 of a left-side cup 12,such as the cup 12 shown to the left side of FIG. 1. The bottom layer 56includes a bottom layer lower edge 58, a bottom layer side central edge60 extending from the bottom layer lower edge 58, and a bottom layerupper central edge 64 extending from the bottom layer side central edge60. The bottom layer 56 further includes a bottom layer side outer edge62 extending from the bottom layer lower edge 58, a bottom layer upperouter edge 66 extending from the bottom layer side outer edge 62, and abottom layer upper clasp edge 65 extending from the bottom layer upperouter edge 66. A clasp attachment point 72 is located adjacent to thebottom layer upper central edge 64 and bottom layer upper clasp edge 65.When constructed, the bottom layer lower edge 58 aligns along the cuplower edge 18, the bottom layer side central edge 60 aligns along thecup side central edge 20, the bottom layer upper central edge 64 alignsalong the cup upper central edge 26, the bottom layer side outer edge 62aligns along part of the cup side outer edge 24, and the bottom layerupper clasp edge 65 aligns along part of the cup upper outer edge 28.According to the depicted embodiment, in construction, the bottom layerside outer edge 62 extends from the cup lower edge 18 to an outer sidemidpoint 23 (FIG. 14) on the cup side central edge 20. Further,according to the depicted embodiment, in construction the bottom layerupper clasp edge 65 extends from the clasp attachment point 72approximately a third of the length of the cup upper outer edge 28.Because the bottom layer 56 is preferably not visible from the front ofthe constructed cup 12, according to the depicted embodiment, the bottomlayer 56 is constructed from a second material 16.

FIG. 10 shows an exploded view of the three layers of a left-side cup 12as they are arranged to partially overlap one another. FIGS. 11 through14 further show the arrangement of the three layers in the constructedcup 12. As shown, the middle layer 42 partially overlaps the bottomlayer 56 and is arranged so that the middle layer upper central edge 52and bottom layer upper outer edge 66 cross one another, thereby defininga nook 96. The top layer 30 partially overlaps the middle layer 42 andbottom layer 56 and covers the nook 96.

FIG. 15 shows a partial view of the constructed cup 12 incorporatedwithin a brassiere 10. Again, the cup 12 depicted is a left-side cup 12,such the cup 12 shown to the left side of FIG. 1. In construction, afirst seam 84 connects the bottom layer 56 to the middle layer 42 alongthe cup lower edge 18, joining the bottom layer lower edge 58 to themiddle layer lower edge 46. A second seam 86 connects the bottom layer56, middle layer 42, and top layer 30 to one another along the cup sideouter edge 24, joining the bottom layer side outer edge 62 to part ofthe middle layer side outer edge 50 and part of the top layer side outeredge 36 while joining the middle layer side outer edge 50 to the toplayer side outer edge 36. According to the depicted embodiment, thebottom layer side outer edge 62 is connected along the cup side outeredge 24 from the cup lower edge 18 to an outer side midpoint 23.

A third seam 88 connects the bottom layer 56, the middle layer 42, andtop layer 30 along the cup side central edge 20, joining the bottomlayer side central edge 60 to the middle layer side central edge 48 andto the top layer side central edge 34. Because, according to thedepicted embodiment, the middle layer side central edge 48 extends fromthe cup lower edge 18 to a central side midpoint 22, the middle layerside central edge 48 joins a part of the bottom layer side central edge60 and a part of the top layer side central edge 34. Further, accordingto the depicted embodiment, the length of the top layer side centraledge 34 is less than that of the bottom layer side central edge 60;thus, the top layer side central edge 34 joins a part of the bottomlayer side central edge 60.

Also as shown in FIG. 15, a fourth seam 90 connects the middle layer 42to the top layer 30 along part of the cup upper outer edge 28, joiningthe middle layer upper outer edge 54 to part of the top layer upperouter edge 40. According to the depicted embodiment, the middle layerupper outer edge 54 is joined along approximately a third of the toplayer upper outer edge 40. A fifth seam 92 connects the bottom layer 56to the top layer 30 along the cup upper central edge 26, joining thebottom layer upper central edge 64 to the top layer upper central edge38. A sixth seam 94 connects the bottom layer 56 to the top layer 30along part of the cup upper outer edge 28, joining the bottom layerupper clasp edge 65 to part of the top layer upper outer edge 40.According to the depicted embodiment, the bottom layer upper clasp edge65 is joined along approximate a third of the top layer upper outer edge40. Therefore, the portion of the top layer upper outer edge 40extending between the bottom layer upper clasp edge 65 and middle layerupper outer edge 54 is left unconnected to another layer of the cup 12.Further, in construction, the top layer lower edge 32, middle layerupper central edge 52, and bottom layer upper outer edge 66 are leftunattached to another layer of the cup 12.

As shown in FIG. 16, the cup 12 is preferably configured to beincorporated within a brassiere 10. According to the first depictedembodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the brassiere 10 is a traditionalbrassiere 10 having a adjustable back band 78, a pair of shoulder straps74, and a pair of strap length adjusters 76, each configured to allowfor length adjustments to the shoulder straps 74. According to thesecond depicted embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, the brassiere 10 is ahalter-style brassiere, having an adjustable back band 78 and a neckstrap 75. In other embodiments, the cup 12 is incorporated in astrapless brassiere 10, a cross-strapped brassiere 10, a sportsbrassiere 10, or a brassiere 10 portion of a bathing suit, leotard,tank, or the like.

FIG. 16 shows the cup 12 incorporated in a brassiere 10 and furtherincluding edging 82 around the cup upper central edge 26 and cup upperouter edge 28. The edging 82 is continued along the adjustable back band78. Edging 82 is further included along the top layer lower edge 32, asshown in FIG. 1. Further, a frame support 80 is included along the cuplower edge 18. According to the depicted embodiment, the frame support80 includes an elastic band configured to provide additional support forthe wearer of the brassiere 10. In other embodiments, the frame support80 includes an underwire, ribbing, or the like.

Preferably, the cup 12 is incorporated in a brassiere 10 configured toaccommodate nursing of an infant direct from the breast 1. As shown inFIGS. 16 and 17, according to the first preferred embodiment, thebrassiere 10 includes a pair of selectively releasable clasps 70, eachattached to one of the cups 12 at a clasp attachment point 72 and alsoconnected to one of the pair of shoulder straps 74. Each selectivelyreleasable clasp 70 is configured to selectively connect one of theshoulder straps 74 to one of the cups 12. Each selectively releasableclasp 70 is configured to be selectively unclasped so as to disconnect ashoulder strap 74 from a cup 12 so as to allow the layers of the cup 12to be let down away from the shoulder strap 74, thereby uncovering thebreast 1 and nipple 3 so as to allow for direct nursing of an infantfrom the breast 1, as shown in FIG. 33. Preferably, the brassiere 10further includes a pair of side support straps 68, with one side supportstrap 68 connecting a shoulder strap 74 to the cup lower edge 18 area ofthe brassiere 10. As shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the side support straps68 connect the shoulder strap 74 to the frame support 80. Accordingly,when a selectively releasable clasp 70 is selectively unclasped, theside support strap 68 provides continued connection between therespective shoulder strap 74 and the cup lower edge 18 area of thebrassiere 10 such that the shoulder strap 74 remains secured in itsplace on the shoulder. In some embodiments, the side support strap 68 isfurther configured to provide continued support for the breast 1 whenthe selectively releasable clasp 70 is selectively unclasped. Theselectively releasable clasp 70 can then be reclasped to return thebrassiere 10 to its original form. Therefore, the brassiere 10 isconfigured to accommodate direct nursing of an infant with manipulationof only one clasp, without having to separate the layers of the cup 12from one another, without having to remove the brassiere 10, withouthaving to detach the cup 12 from the brassiere 10, and without having todetach any other part of the brassiere 10 from the brassiere 10.

While the back views of the layers of the brassiere 10 were shown inFIGS. 7 through 17, FIG. 18 through 26 depict the front views of thelayers. Again, these figures depict the front views of a left-side cup12, such as the cup 12 shown to the left side of FIG. 1. Comparing FIG.8 with FIG. 19, it should be noted that, according to the first depictedembodiment, the exterior side of the middle layer 42 is made of a firstmaterial 14 while the interior side of the middle layer 42 is made of asecond material 16. Further, the exterior sides of the middle layer 42and top layer 30 are preferably made from the same first material 14thereby allowing the cup 12 to be visually unified when viewed from thefront while worn.

As shown in FIG. 28, the cup 12 is configured to support a funnel 7 of aconventional breast pump and reservoir 5 (shown in FIG. 27) against thenipple 3 of a breast 1. More particularly, the cup 12 is configured toselectively receive the funnel 7 behind the unattached edge of the toplayer 30 and within the nook 96 defined by the unattached edges of themiddle layer 42 and bottom layer 56. According to the first preferredembodiment, therefore, the funnel 7 is received behind the top layerlower edge 32 and within the nook 96 defined by the middle layer uppercentral edge 52 and bottom layer upper outer edge 66.

Preferably, the top layer 30, middle layer 42, and bottom layer 56 areall made of a uniformly stretchable material such as spandex, LYCRA®,nylon, or the like, or blends thereof. In other embodiments, the toplayer 30 and bottom layer 56 are made of a uniformly stretchablematerial while the middle layer 42 is not made of a stretchablematerial. In other embodiments, only the unattached edges of the toplayer 30, middle layer 42, and bottom layer 56 are made of a stretchablematerial, such as a band of elastic. In still other embodiments, onlythe unattached edges of the top layer 30 and bottom layer 56 are made ofa stretchable material. In any regard, the unattached edges of at leasttwo layers are configured to be stretched away from their respectivenonstretched shapes to accommodate insertion of the funnel 7 within thenook 96 and underneath the unattached edge of the top layer 30.According to the first depicted embodiment, to receive the funnel 7within the cup 12, the top layer lower edge 32 is stretched away fromthe cup lower edge 18, allowing the funnel 7 to be inserted underneathand behind the top layer 30. The middle layer upper central edge 52 isstretched away from the cup side central edge 20 to allow the funnel 7to be inserted behind the middle layer 42. The bottom layer upper outeredge 66 is stretched away from the cup upper outer edge 28 to allow thefunnel 7 to be inserted behind the bottom layer 56 and within the nook96.

As shown in FIGS. 29 through 32, when the funnel 7 is received withinthe cup 12, the funnel 7 is supported against the nipple 3 of the breast1 by each of the unattached edges of the top layer 30, middle layer 42,and bottom layer 56. Thus, according to the first depicted embodiment,the funnel 7 is supported by each of the top layer lower edge 32, middlelayer upper central edge 52, and bottom layer upper outer edge 66. Themajority of the surface of the funnel 7 is contacted and supported bythe top layer 30, middle layer 42, and bottom layer 56, accommodatingsufficient stability of the funnel 7 against the nipple 3. Because thetop layer 30, middle layer 42, and bottom layer 56 are all preferablymade of a uniformly stretchable material, stretching the layers toinsert the funnel 7 leads to each unattached edge of the layerselastically resisting additional stretch of the edge. Accordingly, theunattached edge of the top layer 30 urges the funnel 7 toward thedirection of the nonstretched unattached edge of the top layer 30, e.g.,toward the cup lower edge 18; the unattached edge of the middle layer 42urges the funnel 7 toward the direction of the nonstretched unattachededge of the middle layer 42, e.g., toward the cup upper central edge 26;while the unattached edge of the bottom layer 56 urges the funnel 7toward the direction of the nonstretched unattached edge of the bottomlayer 56, e.g., toward the cup upper outer edge 28. Thus, thethree-direction pulls hold the funnel 7 in tension where the funnel 7 ispositioned over the nipple 3, even as milk is expressed from the breast1 and the reservoir of the breast pump 5 becomes filled and heavier.Further, as each of the layers is somewhat stretched away from the chestto accommodate the breast 1 and the funnel 7, each layer urges thefunnel 7 to remain pressed against the nipple 3 and breast 1.Accordingly, the funnel 7 is supported not only in three-directionsalong the surface of the cup 12, but also in a direction perpendicularto the surface of the cup 12. The cup 12 is further configured to allowthe funnel 7 to be supported at the location of the nipple 3, regardlessof whether the nipple 3 is located in the center of the breast 1, asshown in FIGS. 31 and 32, or somewhat off to the side of the center ofthe breast 1, as shown in FIGS. 29 and 30. Accordingly, the cup 12 maybe comfortably utilized throughout the full range of naturally-occurringnipple 3 placements. Also, the elasticity of the material of the layersor the unattached edging accommodates the natural expansion andcontraction of a nursing woman's breasts.

While, according to the first and second depicted embodiments, theunattached edge of the top layer 30 is shown as being proximate to thecup lower edge 18, the unattached edge of the middle layer 42 is shownas extending upwardly from the cup side central edge 20 to the cup upperouter edge 28, and the unattached edge of the bottom layer 56 is shownas extending upwardly from the cup side outer edge 24 to the cup upperouter edge 28, thereby defining the nook 96 along the cup upper outeredge 28, in other embodiments, the unattached edges are differentlyarranged. As an example, according to the third depicted embodiment,shown in FIG. 34, the unattached edge of the top layer 30 is shown asbeing proximate to the cup lower edge 18, the unattached edge of themiddle layer 42 is shown as extending upwardly from the cup side outeredge 24 to the cup upper central edge 26, and the unattached edge of thebottom layer 56 is shown as extending upwardly from the cup side centraledge 20 to the cup upper central edge 26. In any regard, the unattachededge of the middle layer 42 crosses the unattached edge of the bottomlayer 56 to define the nook 96, and the top layer 30 covers the nook 96.

Preferably, when the cup 12 is incorporated in a brassiere 10, a pair ofcups 12 are included, particularly a left-side cup 12 and a right-sidecup 12. (It should be noted that while FIG. 7 through 16 and 18 through25 show a left-side cup 12, the views of a right-side cup 12 wouldsimply be mirror-images of these figures.) Further, according to thedepicted embodiments, the top layers 30 of the left-side and right-sidecups 12 are made from a single piece of material. Likewise, the middlelayers 42 of the left-side and right-side cups 12 are made from a singlepiece of material, and the bottom layers 56 of the left-side andright-side cups 12 are made from a single piece of material.

Also, according to the depicted embodiments, the bottom layer 56 isconfigured to cover the nipple 3 of the breast 1 and a majority of thebreast 1 when the bottom layer 56 is not stretched, as shown in FIG. 4.As such, when and if the top layer 30 is stretched back from itsnonstretched position and from the cup lower edge 18, the nipple 3 willnot be exposed. Further, as the bottom layer 56 is the first layeradjacent to the nipple 3 and the breast 1, because the bottom layer 56covers the nipple 3 in its nonstretched form, the edges of the bottomlayer 56 will not rub against or irritate the nipple 3. Preferably, noseams are included inside the edges of the layers again to avoidirritating the nipple 3.

Also according to the depicted embodiments, the top layer 30 isconfigured to cover the nipple 3 of the breast 1 and the majority of thebreast 1 when the top layer 30 is not stretched, as shown in FIG. 1. Assuch, the appearance of the cup 12 and brassiere 10 before the funnel 7is received by the cup 12 is one resembling a traditional brassiere 10.In some embodiments, the middle layer 42 is further configured to coverthe nipple 3 of the breast 1 when the middle layer 42 is not stretched.

The exemplary embodiments shown in the figures and described aboveillustrate, but do not limit, the invention. It should be understoodthat there is no intention to limit the multifunction brassiere cup tothe specific form disclosed; rather, the multifunction cup is to coverall modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents fallingwithin the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.For example, while the exemplary embodiments illustrate theincorporation of the multifunction cup within a brassiere including twosuch multifunction cups, the invention is not limited to use in pairs,but may be used in a brassiere having, as the other cup, a traditionalcup not configured to receive the funnel of a breast pump. Further, inother embodiments, a nursing pad is inserted between the top layer andanother of the layers or between the breast and the bottom layer. Stillfurther, while in the depicted embodiments, the first layer is depictedas the top layer, which directly partially overlaps the second layer ofa middle layer, which directly partially overlaps the third layer of thebottom layer, in other embodiments the ordering of the layers isreversed, as, for example, the first layer partially overlapping thethird layer that partially overlaps the second layer that rests againstthe breast. Hence, the foregoing description should not be construed tolimit the scope of the invention, which is defined in the followingclaims. Accordingly, while there is shown and described the presentpreferred embodiment of the multifunction cup, it is to be distinctlyunderstood that this invention is not limited thereto but may bevariously embodied to practice within the scope of the following claims.From the foregoing description, it will be apparent that various changesmay be made without departing from the spirit and scope of theinvention, as defined by the following claims.

1. A cup for supporting a funnel of a breast pump against a nipple of abreast, said cup comprising: a first layer having a first layerunattached edge; a second layer partially overlapping said first layerand being connected to said first layer, said second layer having asecond layer unattached edge, said second layer unattached edge arrangedso as to cross over said first layer unattached edge thereby defining anook; and a third layer partially overlapping said second layer and saidfirst layer and covering said nook, said third layer being connected tosaid second layer and said first layer, said third layer having a thirdlayer unattached edge; said cup being configured to selectively receivesaid funnel behind said third layer unattached edge and within said nookbehind said second layer unattached edge and said first layer unattachededge such that said funnel is supported against said nipple by each ofsaid third layer unattached edge, said second layer unattached edge, andsaid first layer unattached edge.
 2. The cup of claim 1 wherein saidfirst layer and said third layer are made of stretchable material. 3.The cup of claim 2 wherein said first layer is configured to cover saidnipple of said breast and a majority of said breast when said firstlayer is not stretched.
 4. The cup of claim 2 wherein said third layeris configured to cover said nipple of said breast and a majority of saidbreast when said third layer is not stretched.
 5. The cup of claim 1wherein said first layer unattached edge and said third layer unattachededge are stretchable.
 6. The cup of claim 5 wherein said first layer isconfigured to cover said nipple of said breast and a majority of saidbreast when said first layer unattached edge is not stretched.
 7. Thecup of claim 5 wherein said third layer is configured to cover saidnipple of said breast and a majority of said breast when said thirdlayer unattached edge is not stretched.
 8. The cup of claim 1 furthercomprising a frame support connected to said first layer and said secondlayer along a cup lower edge.
 9. A brassiere for supporting a funnel ofa breast pump against a nipple of a breast, said brassiere comprising: apair of cups, each of said cups comprising a bottom layer having abottom layer unattached edge; a middle layer partially overlapping saidbottom layer and being connected to said bottom layer, said middle layerhaving a middle layer unattached edge, said middle layer unattached edgearranged so as to cross over said bottom layer unattached edge therebydefining a nook; and a top layer partially overlapping said middle layerand said bottom layer and covering said nook, said top layer beingconnected to said middle layer and said bottom layer, said top layerhaving a top layer unattached edge; each of said cups being configuredto selectively receive said funnel behind said top layer unattached edgeand within said nook behind said middle layer unattached edge and saidbottom layer unattached edge such that said funnel is supported againstsaid nipple by each of said top layer unattached edge, said middle layerunattached edge, and said bottom layer unattached edge.
 10. Thebrassiere of claim 9 wherein said bottom layer and said top layer aremade of stretchable material.
 11. The brassiere of claim 10 wherein saidbottom layer is configured to cover said nipple of said breast and amajority of said breast when said bottom layer is not stretched.
 12. Thebrassiere of claim 10 wherein said top layer is configured to cover saidnipple of said breast and a majority of said breast when said top layeris not stretched.
 13. The brassiere of claim 9 wherein said bottom layerunattached edge and said top layer unattached edge are stretchable. 14.The brassiere of claim 13 wherein said bottom layer is configured tocover said nipple of said breast and a majority of said breast when saidbottom layer unattached edge is not stretched.
 15. The brassiere ofclaim 13 wherein said top layer is configured to cover said nipple ofsaid breast and a majority of said breast when said top layer unattachededge is not stretched.
 16. The brassiere of claim 9 further comprising apair of shoulder straps, each of said shoulder straps connected to oneof said cups.
 17. The brassiere of claim 16 further comprising a pair ofselectively releasable clasps, each of said selectively releasableclasps being configured to selectively connect one of said shoulderstraps to one of said cups, wherein selective release of one of saidselectively releasable clasps accommodates uncovering of said breast toaccommodate nursing of an infant direct from said breast.
 18. Thebrassiere of claim 17 further comprising a pair of side support straps,each of said side support straps connecting one of said selectivelyreleasable clasps to a cup lower edge, wherein, following selectiverelease of one of said selectively releasable clasps, said shoulderstraps remain in place.
 19. A brassiere for supporting a funnel of abreast pump against a nipple of a breast expressing milk, said brassierecomprising: a pair of cups, each of said cups having a cup lower edge, acup side central edge, a cup side outer edge, a cup upper central edge,and a cup upper outer edge; each of said cups comprising a bottom layerhaving a bottom layer lower edge aligning along said cup lower edge; abottom layer side central edge extending from said bottom layer loweredge and aligning along said cup side central edge; a bottom layer uppercentral edge extending from said bottom layer side central edge andaligning along said cup upper central edge; a bottom layer side outeredge extending from said bottom layer lower edge and aligning along partof said cup side outer edge; a bottom layer upper outer edge extendingfrom said bottom layer side outer edge; a bottom layer upper claspextending from said bottom layer upper outer edge and aligning alongpart of said cup upper outer edge; a middle layer partially overlappingsaid bottom layer and having a middle layer lower edge aligning alongsaid cup lower edge; a middle layer side central edge extending fromsaid middle layer lower edge and aligning along part of said cup sidecentral edge; a middle layer upper central edge extending from saidmiddle layer side central edge; a middle layer upper outer edgeextending from said middle layer upper central edge and aligning alongpart of said cup upper outer edge; a middle layer side outer edgeextending from said middle layer upper outer edge to said middle layerlower edge and aligning along said cup side outer edge; and said middlelayer upper central edge arranged so as to cross over said bottom layerupper outer edge thereby defining a nook; and a top layer partiallyoverlapping said middle layer and said bottom layer and covering saidnook, said top layer having a top layer lower edge; a top layer sidecentral edge extending from said top layer lower edge and aligning alongpart of said cup side central edge; a top layer upper central edgeextending from said top layer side central edge and aligning along saidcup upper central edge; a top layer side outer edge extending from saidtop layer lower edge and aligning along said cup side outer edge; and atop layer upper outer edge extending from said top layer side outer edgeand aligning along said cup upper outer edge; said bottom layer and saidmiddle layer being connected at said cup lower edge along said bottomlayer lower edge and said middle layer lower edge; said bottom layer,said middle layer, and said top layer being connected at said cup sidecentral edge along said bottom layer side central edge, said middlelayer side central edge, and said top layer side central edge; saidbottom layer and said top layer being connected at said cup uppercentral edge along said bottom layer upper central edge and said toplayer upper central edge; said bottom layer and said top layer beingconnected at part of said cup upper outer edge along said bottom layerupper clasp edge and part of said top layer upper outer edge; saidmiddle layer and said top layer being connected at part of said cupupper outer edge along said middle layer upper outer edge and part ofsaid top layer upper outer edge; said bottom layer, said middle layer,and said top layer being connected at said cup side outer edge alongsaid bottom layer side outer edge, said middle layer side outer edge,and said top layer side outer edge; said bottom layer upper outer edgebeing unattached to said middle layer and said top layer; said middlelayer upper central edge being unattached to said bottom layer and saidtop layer; said top layer lower edge being unattached to said middlelayer and said bottom layer; and said cup being configured toselectively receive said funnel behind said top layer lower edge andwithin said nook behind said middle layer upper central edge and saidbottom layer upper outer edge such that said funnel is supported againstsaid nipple by each of said top layer lower edge, said middle layerupper central edge, and said bottom layer upper outer edge.
 20. Thebrassiere of claim 19 wherein said bottom layer upper outer edge andsaid top layer lower edge are stretchable; said bottom layer isconfigured to cover said nipple of said breast and a majority of saidbreast when said bottom layer upper outer edge is not stretched; andsaid top layer is configured to cover said nipple of said breast andsaid majority of said breast when said top layer lower edge is notstretched.